HC Deb 17 May 1972 vol 837 cc497-8
1. Mr. Barnes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he now intends to make a further statement about the lead content in petrol.

The Minister for Transport Industries (Mr. John Peyton)

As soon as possible.

Mr. Barnes

Is the Minister aware that there is evidence from the United States that young children are more at risk from airborne lead than adults because of their higher metabolic rates? His Department has said that there is no evidence of danger to health at the present level of lead emissions, but with petrol consumption rising as fast as it is will he not agree that it is very urgent that action should be taken as soon as possible?

Mr. Peyton

My answer was not intended in any way to suggest that we do not take this matter very seriously indeed. It is, however, a complicated problem as I am sure the hon. Member will recognise and there is a good deal of evidence on it. There are, however, a good many interests concerned on the economic side, the health side and the medical side. We must be certain that we give the right answer but we will give it as soon as possible.